The Johnson Brothers

David and James Johnson grew up with a passion for cars passed down from their father. He cherished his 1976 Chevy Nova like a firstborn and spent countless weekends bringing his sons to the drag strip, teaching them everything he knew about engines, performance, and craftsmanship.

In 1997, their father gave them a Christmas gift that would spark both adventure and entrepreneurship: a two-seater go-kart. The boys spent endless hours riding around the neighborhood, and when they landed their first business venture—a Washington Post newspaper route—they used the go-kart every morning to deliver papers with speed and efficiency. The rumble of that kart became a familiar morning alarm for their neighbors, who fondly remember the "paper boys on wheels."

James went on to attend technical school and earn ASE certification as a mechanic. Over the years, he built a career spanning both technical and leadership roles at major automotive brands including Goodyear, MINI, Kia, Jeep, and Jiffy Lube. Today, he oversees the parts departments for multiple dealerships in the Washington, D.C. area, managing more than $2 million in annual parts sales.

David pursued a different path, building his career in advertising, media, and technology. He has worked with industry leaders such as Amazon, Yahoo, and Magnite, as well as multiple startups. Known for his ability to take businesses from 0 to 1, David has played a pivotal role in driving growth and securing over $500 million in revenue through strategic deal-making and partnerships.

Together, David and James embody a rare blend of hands-on automotive expertise and high-level business acumen—grounded in their early love of cars and fueled by decades of experience.

The brothers' love of cars can be seen in their choices of rides throughout the years including but not limited to:

1983 BMW 318i coupe

1998 Mazda MX6 (V6)

1999 BMW 525iT 

2003 BMW Alpina D3 Tribute Wagon

2006 Audi A3

2013 BMW X1 xDrive28i

2016 Land Rover LR4 Landmark Edition

The Johnson brothers share a lifelong dream: to create a car import business that brings the passion they’ve carried since childhood to a broader audience. Their goal is to help more enthusiasts realize their own automotive dreams—through vehicles that embody expression, performance, and timeless style.

Now is the moment to invest in the cars that shaped a generation—the icons of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. These vehicles, once aspirational posters on bedroom walls, are now in high demand as both driving machines and collectible assets. Market appreciation, coupled with gaps in the current importer landscape, has created a rare opportunity.

Most U.S. importers today focus on two extremes: either ultra-high-end vehicles accessible only to high-net-worth buyers, or mass-market, low-cost imports sold in volume. Johnson Imports is positioned to occupy the underserved middle ground—bringing in cars that are both special and practical. These vehicles aren’t destined to sit untouched as “garage queens.” Instead, they are approachable, enjoyable daily drivers that combine character with long-term investment potential.

By emphasizing craftsmanship, longevity, and customer service, Johnson Imports aims to build a business that reflects both the brothers’ expertise and the needs of an untapped market segment.